Road to Reopening
Status of Library services at a glance: Bookmark this page for the latest information. Updated Jan. 20, 2022.
Reduced Hours
Starting Friday, Jan. 21, open hours will be reduced at most Library locations due to staffing impacts related to the surge of the omicron variant. Please visit www.spl.org/Today for more information and to stay up to date on location schedules. We apologize for the inconvenience.
Masks Required in Libraries
The Library requires the use of masks by staff and visitors regardless of vaccination status. Children under four years old are exempt from this requirement.
Modified Services
As we continue to work toward a return to normal services, some modifications remain in place. These services are affected by staffing levels or health and safety restrictions.
- Meeting rooms remain closed until further notice.
- We are not currently offering in-person events at Library locations. You can still attend many Library events virtually.
- All services at Library locations are offered from a distance and without physical contact.
Holds
We will notify you when your holds are ready to be picked up. Visit our Notifications page to learn how to choose email, phone or text notifications. You can choose any Library location for holds pickup. Holds will be available inside the building, unless you request that we bring them out to you. Self-checkout stations are available for you to check out your items.
If you have holds available and you’d like to pick them up at a different branch, please use this form to request a new pickup location.
Computers & Wi-Fi
Computers with internet access are available for you to use for up to two hours per day. You can reserve a computer in advance and available computers are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Free Wi-Fi is available to use with your own device at all Library locations.
Charging Stations
Charge your devices quickly and safely. Charging stations are limited, and available on a first-come, first served basis.
Common questions about services in 2021
I don’t have a Library card. Can I apply for one online?
Yes! You can sign up for a Library card online. In order to provide instant access, we will automatically verify your Seattle address. If we are unable to verify your address, we will ask you to provide additional information. People who successfully sign up will get instant access to Library materials and resources.
Parents and guardians of children under 13 can also apply for a child's card online. Also, through our Library Link program, if you are a Seattle Public School student in grades K-12, or a Seattle Public School teacher in grades K-12, you can access the Library’s digital books and online resources. Find out more about our Library Link.
I have a Library card, but can’t figure out how to sign into my account online.
If you have an active account with The Seattle Public Library but are having trouble accessing your account, you can ask for assistance by contacting the Library’s help and reference service at Ask Us.
How can I stay up to date on Library operations and what’s available?
We post updates to this page and our social media channels on Facebook and Twitter. You can sign up for account notifications and more via text, email or phone by following instructions at www.spl.org/Notifications or subscribe to our enewsletters.
Can I contact the Library through chat, email or phone?
Yes, our Ask Us service is available through all of those channels. Click here to chat during our open hours, or send an email at any time. You can also call us during our open hours at 206-386-4636.
Are the Bookmobile and Books by Mail services available?
The Library’s Mobile Services, including Bookmobile and Books by Mail, are available. The Books by Mail service is signing up new patrons who are unable to visit their neighborhood branch due to age or disability.
Which digital resources are available for me to use with my Library card?
We have expanded our digital collections to give you access to more e-books and other online resources. Read e-books, take online classes, use research databases or read current or historical newspaper articles online. Explore Digital Resources and Digital Resources for Kids.
Can I reserve a computer ahead of time?
No, computers are only available on a first-come, first-served basis during open hours, for up to two hours a day. See our computer page for more information.
Can I use a meeting or study room?
For now, meeting rooms and study rooms remain closed to the public.